Is Steelton Safe, Pros and cons of living in Steelton
Steelton, a borough nestled in Dauphin County, Pennsylvania, offers a unique blend of historical industrial roots and a developing community. Located just southeast of Harrisburg, it provides a distinct character shaped by its past as a significant steel-producing center. This industrial heritage has left an indelible mark on the borough’s landscape and its people.
The community’s evolution is evident in its ongoing renaissance, aiming to build upon its foundations. Steelton’s strategic location offers proximity to the state capital, influencing its economic and social dynamics. The borough represents a microcosm of American industrial towns striving for revitalization and future growth.
Is it Safe to Live in Steelton?
Steelton faces challenges regarding public safety, with crime rates significantly above the national average. The overall crime rate is 83% higher than the national average (as reported by DoorProfit). This elevated rate places Steelton as having higher crime than 94% of major U.S. cities (as reported by DoorProfit).
Violent crime in Steelton presents a considerable concern, with residents having a 1 in 158 chance of becoming a victim annually. The violent crime rate is 66% higher than the national average (as reported by DoorProfit). Property crime also remains a significant issue, with an 114% higher rate than the national average, translating to a 1 in 25 chance of victimization each year (as reported by DoorProfit).
The FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting program data indicates specific crime statistics for Steelton. Violent crimes, including murder, assault, and robbery, are all reported at rates higher than the national average (as reported by DoorProfit). Property crimes, such as larceny/theft and vehicle theft, also exceed national averages, with larceny/theft being 108% above average (as reported by DoorProfit).
Demographics and Community
Steelton’s population was recorded at 6,263 at the 2020 census, with an estimated population of 6,245 in 2021 (as reported by Wikipedia). The borough is part of the Harrisburg metropolitan area, contributing to the region’s diverse demographic tapestry. The population density is approximately 3,145.3 people per square mile (as reported by Wikipedia).
The racial makeup of Steelton is varied, with recent data indicating approximately 41.23% Black or African American, 33.89% White, and smaller percentages for Asian and multiracial populations (as reported by Data USA). A significant portion of the population also identifies as Hispanic or Latino, accounting for about 19.59% of residents (as reported by NeighborhoodScout).
The median age in Steelton is 32.4 years, with a notable difference between males (26 years) and females (39.1 years) (as reported by Data USA). This demographic profile suggests a community with a younger male population and a larger proportion of older females.
Housing Market and Cost of Living
The housing market in Steelton is described as very competitive, with a Redfin Compete Score of 84 out of 100 (as reported by Redfin). The median home price in Steelton was approximately $150,000 as of last month, showing a 7.5% increase from the previous year (as reported by Redfin).
Homes in Steelton are selling quickly, with the average home pending in around 20-25 days on the market (as reported by Redfin). The median listing price for homes for sale is around $170,000 (as reported by Redfin).
The cost of living in Steelton, Pennsylvania, is approximately 3% higher than the national average (as reported by PayScale). While housing expenses are 2% lower than the national average, utility prices are 17% higher (as reported by PayScale). Grocery prices are 4% lower than the national average, and healthcare costs are 10% lower (as reported by PayScale).
Job Market and Economy
The economy of Steelton employs approximately 2,664 individuals (as reported by Data USA). The largest industries in Steelton include Retail Trade, Accommodation & Food Services, and Health Care & Social Assistance (as reported by Data USA).
The average annual salary for employees in Steelton is around $48,187, with an estimated hourly wage of $23.17 (as reported by ZipRecruiter). This average salary is lower than the estimated average annual salary of $82,654 for employees at Steelton Borough (as reported by Steelton Borough). The most common job groups for Steelton residents include Office & Administrative Support Occupations, Material Moving Occupations, and Management Occupations (as reported by Data USA).
The unemployment rate for Pennsylvania was 4.2% in March 2026 (as reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics). While specific unemployment data for Steelton is not readily available, the state’s rate indicates a generally stable job market.
Climate and Weather
Steelton experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasons. The average annual temperature in Dauphin County is approximately 50.1°F (as reported by NOAA). Summer months typically bring warm weather, with average high temperatures in the mid-70s Fahrenheit.
Winter temperatures can drop below freezing, with average low temperatures in the 20s Fahrenheit. Rainfall is distributed throughout the year, with no distinct dry season. The area experiences varied weather patterns, including sunshine, clouds, and occasional precipitation.
The National Weather Service provides a 7-day forecast for Steelton, indicating typical weather patterns for the region. Forecasts show a mix of conditions, including mostly cloudy nights, sunny days, and chances of showers and thunderstorms depending on the season (as reported by the National Weather Service).
Education and Schools
The Steelton-Highspire School District serves the borough, encompassing elementary, middle, and high school levels. The district, as a whole, has received a C-minus overall Niche grade (as reported by Niche). Steelton-Highspire High School also holds a C-minus rating (as reported by Niche).
Student-teacher ratios vary across the district’s schools. For instance, Steelton-Highspire Elementary School has a student-teacher ratio of 14:1 (as reported by Niche). Performance metrics, such as proficiency in math and reading, indicate areas for improvement within the district’s schools.
While some teachers and staff are noted for their dedication, there are concerns about a lack of community, communication, and consistent academic rigor. The availability of advanced placement courses is limited, and college readiness is an area that could be enhanced (as reported by Niche).
Major Employers
Historically, the steel industry, through companies like Pennsylvania Steel Company and later Bethlehem Steel, was a primary employer in Steelton. While the landscape has changed, the legacy of industrial work remains a part of the town’s identity.
Current major employers are not explicitly detailed for Steelton itself, but the broader Harrisburg metropolitan area offers a range of employment opportunities. These include sectors such as government, healthcare, education, and manufacturing, reflecting the diverse economic base of the region.
The U.S. Census Bureau data indicates that a significant portion of the working population is employed in professional or administrative positions, with a smaller percentage in hands-on or service-based jobs (as reported by Point2Homes). A notable 9.23% of the workforce works from home, which is relatively high for the county (as reported by NeighborhoodScout).